Overview
Karnikara is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for skin disorders. Karnikara (Pterospermum acerifolium) is a large tree found in the Himalayan foothills at up to 5000 feet. It has very large leaves (up to 1 foot diameter) with silvery underside. The white fragrant flowers bloom at night. The leaves are used as natural plates for eating. The tree grows 8-12 feet or more. The flowers and bark are used medicinally. Dose: Various external applications. Verse: 28.
How Karnikara Helps with Skin Disorders
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Karnikara has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing skin disorders:
- Potency (Virya): Sheeta (cold)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Kashaya (astringent), Tikta (bitter)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Other Herbs for Skin Disorders
See all herbs for skin disorders on the Skin Disorders page.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
Eight synonyms: Aragvadha (disease overcomer), Rajavriksha (royal tree), Shampaka (auspicious fruit bearer), Chaturangula (four angulas in measure), Pragraha (disease seizer), Kritamala (garland-forming flower), Karnikara (golden shower), Avaghataka.
— Charaka Samhita, Kalpa Sthana — Pharmaceutical Preparations, Chapter 8: Pharmaceutical Preparations of Chaturangula (Chaturangula Kalpa Adhyaya / चतुरङ्गुलकल्प अध्याय)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Kalpa Sthana — Pharmaceutical Preparations, Chapter 8: Pharmaceutical Preparations of Chaturangula (Chaturangula Kalpa Adhyaya / चतुरङ्गुलकल्प अध्याय)
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.